- The explosion, which happened while locals were scooping fuel from the fallen tanker, left 105 persons dead and 55 injured.
The 2023 Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has expressed sadness over the tanker explosion that took place in Jigawa State.
Within Nigeria had reported on Wednesday that the tanker explosion happened in Majiya town of Taura Local Government Area of the State.
The explosion, which happened while locals were scooping fuel from the fallen tanker, left 105 persons dead and 55 injured.
In a post on his X page on Wednesday, Atiku condoled with the family of the victims and the state government.
To forestall future occurrence of such catastrophic incident, Atiku charged the Nigerian government to consider the option of transporting fuel via rail across the country.
Atiku said: “I am saddened by reports of the death of scores of people in a petrol tanker explosion in Majiya town in Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State.
“The incident in Jigawa is one too many involving tragic petrol tanker explosions in the country.
“It is about time we explored other means, like rail, for transporting petroleum products around the country.
“It is also pertinent to train drivers involved in the transportation of flammable products and review the protocol for the transportation of petroleum products and other inflammable products.
“I wish to share my grief with the people and government of Jigawa State and ask for an expeditious rescue and control operation. No resource should be spared in treating the injured.
“I also sympathize with families that have lost dear ones to this tragic incident and pray that they be comforted and that the deceased find eternal rest. -AA”